Penguins News

Quote Roundup: Pens-Preds (Game 1)

Here's what the Pens had to say heading into Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final against Nasvhille...

On if there are any nerves going into tonight:

Maatta: "Yeah, a little bit. It's the Stanley Cup Final. I think it's part of it, but I feel like it's more of an excitement."

Guentzel: "Yeah, a little bit. It's something you dream about to have this happen and just soak it all in. It doesn't happen very often, so I'm just making the most of it."

Sheary: "I slept fine. I don't know about the other guys. There is a lot of excitement in the room. Guys are excited to be at the rink this time of year. We are looking forward to the opportunity … It is a different experience this year, just because I have been here before. A lot of guys in this room have. I think we want to approach it as a new challenge and a new round."

On if having Stanley Cup Final experience will be an advantage for Pittsburgh:

Sheary: "I think experience is a big part of this time of year. We have a lot of playoff experience in this room, especially with last year and going all the way. We want to use that to our advantage and also realize it is a new season. Nothing is given to us. We have to go out there and earn it."

Maatta: "I think when the puck drops, it doesn't really matter. All that matters is who competes harder, who players better. That's got to be our mindset going into the game."

Rust: "I think it helps calm the nerves a little bit. There is obviously going to be nerves anyways because it is such a big stage, but guys have been there before. Guys kind of know there are going to be ups and downs. There is going to be good and bad. I think that is going to help guys go out there and play their game no matter what."

On maintaining a routine throughout the Final:

Rust: "I think that is one of the most important things, especially going into Game 1. There may be a little more nerves, a little more anxiousness than usual, but you have to stick to your routine. Do what you do and that will help you."

Guentzel: "You try to stick to (a routine) as much as you can. I think that's the biggest thing, and kind of just take it like any other game, but, obviously, it's a little more intense (laughs)."

Rowney: "I think you go about your daily routine and what has worked in the past. There is a lot more hype now. You have to stick to what has worked in the past and are prepared when the puck drops."

On the rarity of making it to two-consecutive Stanley Cup Finals:

Mike Sullivan: "The NHL playoffs might be the most grueling playoffs in professional sports. I have such an appreciation for the opportunity that this team has earned to this point. Having said that, we also understand that nothing is inevitable, and we have to continue to earn the opportunity that's in front of us through our play. So we're looking at Game 1. We're not looking beyond it. Our focus is right on the task at hand, and that's that game tonight."